Keeping Medicine Human in the Age of AI - Dr Shizar Nahidi

Artificial intelligence is rapidly becoming part of everyday medical practice; from patient notes, documentation and imaging, to risk prediction and clinical decision support. But while AI is powerful, the ethical frameworks, governance systems, and clinical guidance needed to support its safe use are still catching up. In this episode, Dr Shizar Nahidi discusses why AI should be understood as an assistance tool, rather than a human replacement.  Dr Nahidi is a Psychiatry Registrar at Latrobe Regional Health and an Adjunct Senior Lecturer with Monash University’s School of Rural Health, who is actively involved in research and policy work around AI governance in healthcare. He says artificial intelligence is incredibly useful in crunching the numbers and supporting decision-making, however it cannot pick up on the nuances of patient-care.The conversation also delves into the risks of AI in medicine, including data privacy, bias, over-reliance on algorithms, and the loss of personalised care. Dr Nahidi highlights the importance of transparency, critical thinking and clinician oversight. Despite the risks, Dr Nahidi is ultimately optimistic about the future of AI, which if implemented responsibly, could result in rural doctors being able to spend more face-to-face time with their patients.For more information about the study and training opportunities across regional Victoria, head to the Monash Rural Health website.The North West Victoria and Gippsland Regional Training Hubs have commissioned this podcast to help medical students and junior doctors learn more about training and practising medicine in regional Australia. Find your nearest Regional Training Hub here.